NEW YORK -- It was a fait accompli when this day started, but when Matt Harvey sat down on the makeshift podium in the Caesars Club at Citi Field, it became official. Harvey will be the National League's starting pitcher in Tuesday's All-Star Game.

Harvey has marveled for the Mets this season, posting a 7-2 record and a 2.35 ERA, with a league-leading 147 strikeouts. That he could earn this acclaim is vindication for a goal he set before the season.

"I came up and obviously wanted to do everything that I could for R.A. Dickey, who had a tremendous season last year," Harvey said. "With him not being here, it was going to take a lot and someone needed to step in. It was a role I wanted to take and it was something I took pride in. Having this opportunity and getting the nod is one step closer. Like I said, it's something I'm very proud of."

Harvey becomes the third Mets pitcher to earn the honor, following Tom Seaver and Dwight Gooden. He praised the help that Gooden has given him this season.